“Maybe family isn‘t just about who you‘re born to. Maybe it‘s about who you choose to have in your life.”

Students can explore Crow's journey to discover her history and what it means to be part of a family, emphasizing that family can be defined in many ways. Teachers can have students create “Family Trees,” where they include not just family members but also friends and mentors who support them, illustrating the various forms of connection in their lives. Following this, students can share their trees in small groups.

Beyond the Bright Sea (published in 2017) by Lauren Wolk is a poignant tale of identity and belonging that follows twelve-year-old Crow, an orphan abandoned at birth and raised on a remote island in Massachusetts by the compassionate Osh and their spirited neighbor, Miss Maggie. When a mysterious fire appears across the water, Crow‘s curiosity about her origins ignites a series of events that lead her on a journey of self-discovery and adventure.

“Temperature can be close to freezing and it‘s almost completely dark in this zone. Since there is no sunlight, plants can‘t grow here.”

Students explore the fascinating world of deep-sea creatures using Alien Ocean Animals by Rosie Colosi. Through engaging text and stunning images, students will learn how these creatures hunt for food and protect themselves from predators. The lesson encourages curiosity about marine life and promotes discussion on ocean ecosystems. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to identify various deep-sea animals.

In Alien Ocean Animals (2021) by Rosie Colosi, readers are taken on an exciting journey into the depths of the ocean, uncovering the strange and fascinating adaptations of real deep-sea creatures. This Level 3 Reader explores the dark Midnight Zone, showcasing how these animals survive in their harsh environments by producing their light and evading predators. National Geographic's vivid photographs bring these mysterious creatures to life.

“In this book, I‘ll show you how to explore and investigate things in the forest. But when you do this, you should always take an adult with you. And you should never put anything from the forest in your mouth unless an adult can identify what it is, as some plants can be poisonous.”

Students will explore the fascinating world of trees and forests using Can You Hear the Trees Talking? Discovering the Hidden Life of the Forest by Peter Wohlleben. The lesson will include discussions about the importance of trees in our communities and how they impact our well-being. Students will also participate in hands-on outdoor activities to observe local trees and their surroundings.

In Can You Hear the Trees Talking? (2020), Peter Wohlleben invites young readers to explore the enchanting world of forests. This interactive book is filled with outdoor activities, quizzes, and fascinating facts about trees and their intricate communication systems. Wohlleben reveals how trees care for their families and share information through the “wood wide web.“ The book features engaging illustrations that enhance the learning experience.

“Numbers help us understand our world.“

Students dive into the animal kingdom using Animals by the Numbers. Through Jenkins' captivating cut-paper illustrations, students will learn how numbers play a vital role in understanding the animal world. The lesson encourages students to ask their questions about animals and use infographics to present their findings. By the end of the lesson, students will gain a deeper appreciation for zoology.

In Animals by the Numbers: A Book of Infographics (2016), Steve Jenkins uses engaging infographics to convey fascinating zoological facts about the animal kingdom. The book answers intriguing questions about the number of species worldwide. Jenkins combines his signature cut-paper illustrations with computer graphics, creating visually stunning representations of data that make complex information accessible and enjoyable for readers.

“Temperature can be close to freezing and it‘s almost completely dark in this zone. Since there is no sunlight, plants can‘t grow here.”

Students dive into Earth science with The Magic School Bus: Inside the Earth by Joanna Cole. Ms. Frizzle takes her class on an exciting journey through the Earth's layers, introducing sedimentary, and many more rocks. This adventure helps students understand the structure of our planet and reinforces key geology concepts. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to identify different rock types and explain how Earth‘s layers are formed.

In the Magic School Bus: Inside the Earth (1993), Joanna Cole takes readers on an educational journey with Ms. Frizzle and her class as they explore the Earth‘s layers and learn about sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks. Aboard the magic bus, students discover fascinating rock formations and what each type of rock is used for. Bruce Degen‘s lively illustrations add to the adventure, showing the journey to life with vibrant visuals.

“In 1938, he created the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis. The foundation raised money for the care of patients and prevention of the disease in a campaign dubbed the “March of Dimes.”

Students explore the history and importance of vaccines through A Shot in the Arm! by Don Brown. The book introduces how vaccines have helped people stay safe from diseases like smallpox, measles, and COVID-19. Through fun illustrations and storytelling, the book makes complex science easier to understand. By the end of the lesson, students will appreciate how vaccines have saved lives and continue to play a vital role in public health.

In A Shot in the Arm! (2021), Don Brown delves into the transformative history of vaccines, from smallpox to COVID-19, highlighting both the science of immunity and the incredible contributions of figures like Lady Mary Wortley Montagu and Edward Jenner. Part of the Big Ideas That Changed the World series, this graphic novel captures the urgency and drama of humanity's battle against infectious diseases, blending humor with impactful storytelling.

“I do not make films primarily for children. I make them for the child in all of us whether we be six or sixty.”

Students will discuss the importance of creativity, perseverance, and problem-solving in achieving their dreams. They will also analyze the vibrant illustrations, which reflect Disney‘s innovative spirit. To reinforce these themes, students will participate in a hands-on activity where they create their own character or story, inspired by Walt's imaginative legacy.

The Life of Walt Disney (2021) by Doreen Rappaport is a captivating picture book biography that chronicles the extraordinary life of Walt Disney, a pioneer in family entertainment. From his childhood in Missouri to creating beloved characters like Mickey Mouse and establishing Disneyland, this captures Walt's relentless imagination and dedication to storytelling. The illustrations by Pomeroy bring Disney‘s world to life with vivid colors.

“Alaa loves Aleppo, and he loves the people who live there.”

The book tells the true story of Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, who stayed in Aleppo during the Syrian Civil War to care for abandoned cats. Students will discuss how one person‘s kindness can make a difference and how we can show empathy to others, both people and animals. They will also examine the vibrant illustrations, which depict Alaa‘s journey and the impact of his actions. Students will be encouraged to think of small ways they can help others.

The Cat Man of Aleppo (2020), by Karim Shamsi-Basha and Irene Latham, tells the inspiring true story of Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, who stayed in war-torn Aleppo to care for the many abandoned cats left behind. Alaa, an ambulance driver, began feeding the hungry, frightened cats he found each day. Soon, more and more cats arrived, and his compassion drew attention from around the world, leading others to help him create a sanctuary for the animals.

“Fred wanted everyone he met to feel safe, valued, and loved.”

Students will learn about kindness through Hello, Neighbor! The Kind and Caring World of Mister Rogers. Students will discuss the importance of being a good neighbor and showing compassion. Engaging illustrations, students will reflect on ways Mister Rogers used his show to address difficult topics. The lesson will include activities where students practice kindness through small gestures and discuss how they can support friends and family.

In Hello, Neighbor! The Kind and Caring World of Mister Rogers (2020), Matthew Cordell brings Fred Rogers' legacy of kindness and empathy to young readers. This authorized picture book biography beautifully captures the gentle, compassionate spirit of Mister Rogers, exploring his early life and the creation of his beloved show. Cordell‘s lively, colorful illustrations, along with archival photos, provide a warm glimpse into Rogers' world.

“In a little room- in the dark before dawn-a baby girl was born.”

Students will explore the poetry of Emily Dickinson through On Wings of Words: The Extraordinary Life of Emily Dickinson by Jennifer Berne. Students will read some of her poems, discuss how poetry can capture emotions, and observe how Emily‘s love for nature inspired her writing. With the help of Becca Stadtlander‘s warm illustrations, students will learn to appreciate the beauty of words and will create their own short poems inspired by nature.

In the Extraordinary Life of Emily Dickinson (2020), Jennifer Berne beautifully captures the life and spirit of poet Emily Dickinson, highlighting her love for nature, small wonders, and the power of words. This lyrical biography introduces young readers to Dickinson‘s poetry and imagination. Becca Stadtlander's enchanting illustrations complement the text with warm, delicate scenes that evoke the quiet beauty of Emily‘s world.

“Looked and Wondered. Looked and wondered.”

A Story of Albert Einstein by Jennifer Berne. The book introduces young Albert, whose endless questions about the world led him to become one of history‘s greatest scientists. Students will explore how Einstein‘s curiosity and creativity helped him make important discoveries and how they, too, can think like scientists. Using Vladimir Radunsky‘s playful illustrations, students will discuss how imagination can lead to big ideas.

A Story of Albert Einstein (2013), Jennifer Berne tells the inspiring story of Albert Einstein, from a curious boy to one of the world‘s most celebrated scientists. The book captures his journey of wonder and discovery, illustrating how his imagination and relentless curiosity led to groundbreaking ideas that changed our understanding of the universe. Vladimir's whimsical illustrations bring Einstein‘s dreams to life with imaginative designs.

“The poems I like best wear classic black with vintage accessories and smell like a new book, the spine just cracked.

Poems to Speak, Sing, and Shout by Paul B. Janeczko, we explore poems that are meant to be enjoyed out loud! Reading poetry out loud helps us hear the rhythms and sounds that make each poem unique. After exploring a few poems, pick one that you find interesting or funny, and try reading it with a friend or family member. This book shows us that poetry is not only about reading—it‘s about playing with language, rhythm, and expression.

In A Foot in the Mouth: Poems to Speak, Sing, and Shout (2009) by Paul B. Janeczko, readers are invited into a lively world of poems meant to be performed and enjoyed aloud. This vibrant collection features more than three dozen poems that play with language, from rhythmic rhymes and tongue twisters to bilingual poems and verses for multiple voices. Each selection encourages children to engage with poetry in fun and interactive ways.

“The first two lines often introduce the subject of the poem.” The third and fourth rhyme with each other, but not with lines 1, 2, and 5.”

In Something Sure Smells Around Here by Brian P. Cleary, we learn about limericks, a fun type of poetry that‘s short, silly, and full of rhythm! After reading a few, try writing your limerick by choosing something silly to write about, like a funny animal or wacky food. Remember, poetry doesn‘t have to be serious—it can be playful and make people smile, just like the limericks in Cleary‘s book!

In Something Sure Smells Around Here (2021), author Brian P. Cleary introduces young readers to the lively world of limericks—short, five-line poems with a playful rhythm and rhyme. Through 26 original limericks, it clearly explains how these poems combine humor with storytelling, making them perfect for both reading and writing. Limericks have a fun, musical beat, and follow a few simple rules.

“I love you and I‘m sorry and hold on are the last things he says to me though I barely hear the words over the screaming in my mind.”

In The Canyon‘s Edge by Dusti Bowling, Nora faces her fears and discovers her inner strength while surviving alone in the desert. This story shows that, just like Nora, we all have things that scare us or make us feel sad, but we can find the courage to keep going. Think about a time you were brave or overcame something difficult. Try writing or drawing about it—just as Nora learns, our greatest strengths can come from facing our fears.

In The Canyon's Edge (2020) by Dusti Bowling, we follow Nora, who faces unimaginable challenges after a flash flood separates her from her father during a climbing trip in the Arizona desert. Nora struggles with the emotional and physical toll of survival. Now alone, she must confront her fears, face dangerous wildlife, and battle her inner “Beast,” a symbol of her trauma and grief. Powerful exploration of loss and strength needed to keep moving.

“Good dog Bob. Great to have a best friend.“—Danny DeVito

In The One and Only Bob by Katherine Applegate. Just like Bob, we all have people in our lives we care about and who help us when things get tough. After reading about Bob‘s adventure, think about a time when you had to be brave or help a friend. Then, try writing or drawing about someone who makes you feel supported, just like Bob‘s friends do for him. Bob‘s story reminds us that friends and family can help us face anything together.

Review- In The One and Only Bob (2020) by Katherine Applegate, readers return to the world of The One and Only Ivan with Bob, a scrappy stray dog who once endured abuse and now embarks on a heartwarming journey. Living with his human friend Julia, Bob still struggles with trust but feels a powerful loyalty to his best friends, Ivan the gorilla and Ruby the elephant. This sequel is a meaningful addition to Applegate's beloved series.

“It‘s fun to be a border kid, to wake up early Saturdays and cross the bridge to Mexico with my dad”

In They Call Me Güero, we meet a Mexican American boy named Güero who shares his unique life through poetry. With his light skin and red hair, Güero sometimes feels different, but he celebrates who he is through his love for reading, video games, and hanging out with his “misfit squad” of friends. Inspired by Güero, try writing your poem about something important to you—you might find that, like Güero.

They call me Güero invites you into the world of a pale-skinned, nerdy boy with a rich Latino heritage. Güero is a reader, a gamer, and a budding musician who rolls with a tight-knit crew of misfits. Through his sharp, heartfelt poetry, he brings everyday experiences to life—making poetry cool along the way. Dive into Güero‘s journey as he navigates life, friendship, and identity, one verse at a time.

“So much of this was patience—waiting and thinking and doing things right. So much of all this, so much of all living was patience and thinking.“

For Hatchet, create a lesson on resilience and problem-solving. Begin with a discussion about how Brian adapts to the wilderness and overcomes obstacles. Ask students to identify moments where they use creativity and perseverance to survive. As an activity, have students write about a time they faced a challenge and how they worked through it. This lesson helps students connect the book‘s themes of survival to their personal growth and resilience.